The phrase "off straight and narrow" refers to someone who has deviated from an honest and moral course of action. The word "off" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɒ/ as in "hot", while "straight" is pronounced with the long vowel sound /eɪ/ as in "say". "Narrow" is pronounced with the diphthong /æə/ as in "air", followed by the /r/ sound. The phrase "off straight and narrow" suggests that someone has gone astray from the path of righteousness and must find their way back.
The phrase "off straight and narrow" is an idiomatic expression that means deviating from the path of righteousness, moral uprightness, or adherence to societal norms. It refers to someone who is engaging in behaviors or activities that are considered improper, illicit, or morally questionable.
The term "straight and narrow" originally comes from the Christian Bible, specifically from a passage in the Gospel of Matthew where it advises people to enter through the "narrow gate," which leads to the path of righteousness and salvation. Consequently, being "on the straight and narrow" has come to represent a metaphorical path of good conduct and adherence to moral principles.
When someone is "off straight and narrow," they have strayed away from this path and are involved in activities that may be frowned upon or regarded as morally wrong. This could include engaging in illegal activities, unethical behavior, or indulging in vices such as substance abuse, dishonesty, or promiscuity.
Overall, "off straight and narrow" suggests a departure from expected social or moral behavior, implying that the person in question has lost their way or temporarily abandoned their path of virtue and integrity.